When a person has a life-threatening condition that requires
surgery right away. For example, it may be done for ectopic pregnancy.

When scarring (adhesions) or
abnormal conditions make it hard to use laparoscopy to see inside the
belly.

For diagnosis of pelvic symptoms. Treatment can be done at
the same time.

For PID, laparotomy is not done as often as laparoscopy, which requires special equipment and training. But laparotomy is done if a hospital is not equipped for laparoscopy. It may also be done if another problem is suspected, such as a ruptured appendix.

The hospital or surgery center may send you instructions on how to
get ready for your surgery. Or a nurse may call you with instructions before
your surgery.

Right after surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area. While you are there,
nurses will care for and observe you. You most likely will stay in the recovery
area for 1 to 4 hours. Then you will be moved to a hospital room. Your nurse will give you any special instructions from your doctor and will explain
information to help you during your recovery.

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